Porcelain Veneers: The Step-by-Step Process

Are you unhappy with your smile? If you have several imperfections in your teeth that you want to address all at once, porcelain veneers are an excellent solution to consider. The ultra-thin sheaths of dental grade porcelain are cemented to the front surfaces of teeth, concealing any flaw from view! But before you move forward with treatment, you might want to know a bit more about the procedure. Here’s a basic idea of what you can expect from the veneer process.

Initial Consultation

If you want to transform your smile, porcelain veneers are an excellent way to do so. At your initial visit, you’ll want to discuss not only the problems you want to address but the type of grin you’d like to have as well. It’s a good idea to show visual examples of what you want your teeth to look like. That way, your dentist can better understand your goals and put an effective plan in place to start working towards your desired results.

Test Run

Did you know you can preview your veneers before you fully commit to treatment? There are a few ways of doing so. Your dentist can create a life-size model of your teeth and shape “veneers” onto them using wax, showing what can be obtained. Another option is for your dentist to create trial veneers and place them directly on your teeth. With this method, you’ll be able to see exactly what your new smile will look like!

Preparation Process

Once you and your dentist have agreed on a plan, your teeth will be prepared for your new veneers. It’s worth noting that the preparation process can vary from person to person. It may include polishing the teeth or removing a layer from the front, biting edges, or sides of the teeth. Your dentist will do their best to remove as little tooth structure as possible. However, the actual amount removed depends on the desired result. Since tooth reduction is irreversible, it’s crucial to discuss preparation before it happens.

Laboratory Creation

After your teeth are prepared, an impression of them will be made. Your dentist will send this mold to a dental laboratory so they can create an exact replica of your teeth. They’ll use that model to fabricate your permanent veneers – and this process could take several weeks to complete. In the meantime, you’ll be provided with temporary veneers.

Final Placement

Once the permanent veneers arrive from the lab, you’ll return to the clinic, and your dentist will bond them to your teeth using a special cement. They’ll be attached so securely, only a dental drill or laser will be able to remove them. Since they’re permanently binding, you don’t have to worry about them coming off accidentally (unless they encounter an excessive amount of pressure).

Now that you know more about the veneer process, are you ready to move forward with treatment? If so, contact your dentist and ask how you can get started – your dream smile is only a phone call away!

About the Practice

At Oshkosh Complete Dentistry, we provide exceptional, state-of-the-art, compassionate dental care that’s guaranteed to exceed even your highest expectations. Our team will do everything possible to give you a smile you can proudly show off. To learn more about the veneer process, visit our website or call (920) 235-0320.